Tell me if this sounds familiar…
It’s 5 p.m., you’ve barely moved all day, but you’re exhausted.
You know a workout would make you feel better, but squeezing it in feels impossible with everything else going on.
The good news?
Even without a full workout, the everyday activities you’re already doing—running errands, wrapping gifts, hauling groceries—are actually doing more for your body than you might think.
Those activities are called NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis), and it refers to all the little ways you stay active outside of traditional workouts.
Cool, right?
But here’s the even better news…
If you’re working on moving your body intentionally and consistently, especially during the holidays, research shows these small bursts of movement help you stay on track by providing benefits like:
● Boosting your mood
● Improving your sleep
● Balancing your blood sugar
● Reducing stiffness and mobility
● Lowering stress levels
● Supporting heart health
Just to name a few.
This doesn’t give you permission to skip your planned workouts 😉—because no one ever finished a workout wishing they hadn’t done it!
But here are a few extra ways to boost your NEAT benefits:
● Take a quick walk during lunch or around the airport if you’re traveling
● Stretch or do some simple movements if you’re stuck at a desk
● Cook at home so you’re on your feet instead of waiting on takeout
● Park a little further away when you’re running errands, or take the stairs when you can
Or, if you’re up for it, make it a game—track your steps or start a friendly challenge with family or friends to see who can get the most movement in each day!
The bottom line is, all those efforts add up…
So keep it simple, keep it doable, and just keep moving!
REFERENCES:
Comments